Why a Split Decision Is a Sign of Sanity

We're locked in an exquisite immobility

Where is that new President of ours? I know he's here someplace. Now you see him, now you don't. The presidential election terminating the Clinton years ends in the ultimate Clintonism--an astonishing tie, a masterpiece of delicately balanced ambivalence. We end by looking at a split screen, like one of those old campaign buttons that shows you one image (Gore) if you look at it from one angle and a different image (Bush) if you tilt it slightly. I seem to see Clinton enter smilingly upon the chaotic scene: "Say, if y'all can't make up your minds, why don't we just...I...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!